What must a holder of an inspection authorization have to be compliant?

To comply with the requirements of holding an Inspection Authorization (IA), a key element is maintaining a fixed base of operations for contact. This assures that the FAA and other regulatory bodies can easily reach the IA holder for compliance checks and communication. It provides a stable location where records can be kept, inspections can be performed, and necessary resources can be managed. A fixed base not only allows for better organizational structure but also establishes credibility and accountability for the authorized inspector.

The other options, while they may provide additional support to the work of the IA holder, do not satisfy the essential compliance requirement set forth by the FAA. Having a contractor for major repairs or a dedicated team of mechanics can enhance operational efficiency, but these are not mandated conditions for holding an IA. Similarly, various means of contact at multiple locations might improve accessibility, yet they do not fulfill the fundamental necessity of establishing a fixed location as the primary operational base.